Our History
Until the end of 2002 the Group was known as Beeston Operatic Society (or BOS for short). It was thought that the "operatic" part of the name was becoming misleading - an opera had never been performed by the Society in all its 35 years - so was changed to Beeston Musical Theatre Group.
How did it all begin? The following is from the White Horse Inn programme of 1967, produced the same year the society was formed, and was written by Paul Middleton:
Earlier this year four people arranged to meet with the specific object of forming an operatic society in Beeston.
They were Graham Anderson, John Hackney, Paul Middleton and Ted Morris. These four, each being a member of other neighbouring Societies felt there must be a need for an Operatic Society in Beeston as many of these neighbouring Societies are supported by a considerable number of Beeston people. It was also felt that an Urban District as prominent as Beeston and Stapleford should have one of its own.
However, it was decided that in order to assess the interest an inaugural meeting should be held. Michael Wright, a local Councillor and County Councillor who has had experience in amateur operatics, was asked if he would be interested in accepting the position of producer. Andrew Nicklin, of Borrowash who has directed a number of operatic productions, shows and revues in the Derby area was also asked if he would join the Society as its Musical Director. Both readily agreed to support the venture.
Advertisements were placed in local papers stating the date, time and place of the meeting. To everyone's surprise, and particularly the founder members, 90 people attended and it was decided to go ahead with the formation of the "Beeston Operatic Society". Numerous musical shows were considered and it was eventually decided that the first year's production should be "White Horse Inn". Musical scores were purchased and rehearsals commenced a fortnight later.
The Society decided to become affiliated to the Notts. County Council as an evening institute and the rehearsals have taken place at the Roundhill County Junior School, Foster Avenue, Beeston.
That first show was performed to a very local audience but as popularity grew a move was made to the Co-op Arts Theatre in George Street, Nottingham. There we stayed until 2000, when the future of the theatre was in doubt. A move to the Duchess Theatre in Long Eaton was finally made until a fire ravaged the building in 2003.
Coming full circle we now rehearse and perform at Round Hill School in Beeston, although we intend to move back to the Duchess Theatre, once it has been rebuilt.